Fisker Automotive, Inc., the new American manufacturer of premium green automobiles, unveiled its first production car - the 2010 Fisker Karma - at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. With a starting price of $87,900 ($80,400 after US government tax credits), 1,000 orders for the 100 mile-per-gallon luxury plug-in hybrid have been received since the prototype debuted at the 2008 NAIAS. Fisker Karma deliveries are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2009 through the Fisker Automotive Retail network.
The four-door, four-seat Fisker Karma fuses the traditional and timeless styling of veteran auto designer and Fisker Automotive CEO Henrik Fisker, with Quantum Technologies' clean Q-DRIVE® plug-in hybrid powertrain to become the world's first luxury plug-in hybrid car.
Q-DRIVE®: POWERFUL TECHNOLOGY
Exclusive to Fisker Automotive, Q-DRIVE® provides the best combination of power, efficiency and low emissions. The system is comprised of two 201hp electric motors powered by an advanced lithium-ion technology battery pack. A generator attached to a 260hp turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec® direct injection (D1) gasoline engine provides extended range capabilities.
"More than 60 percent of America's 200 million drivers travel less than 50 miles per day. With Q-DRIVE®, the Fisker Karma can do that without using a drop of gas. This proprietary powertrain will provide a base for all future model derivatives from Fisker Automotive." said Alan Niedzwiecki, CEO Quantum Technologies.
Q-DRIVE® features two operating modes: Stealth Mode and Sport Mode. In electric-only Stealth Mode, drivers can travel emission free for up to 50 miles on a full charge from any 110-, 220- or 240-volt electric outlet. A total range of up to 300 miles is estimated in Sport Mode, which utilizes the efficient Ecotec® gasoline engine to turn a generator that powers two electric motors on the rear differential. A fully charged Fisker Karma can achieve an annual average of more than 100 miles per gallon.
With a top speed of 125 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, the Fisker Karma is the world's first true premium plug-in hybrid sports sedan. The Karma's low center of gravity and performance oriented, A-arm suspension system offer a world class driving experience. Tall, wide tires deliver immense lateral grip while electrohydaulic disc brakes provide effortless stopping power.
LUXURY AND STYLE
Fisker Karma's exterior design features the continual flow of sculpture and dramatic proportion that is signature Fisker style. A low, wide stance and raised front fenders offer the driver a unique view of the car's design. Modest changes from the original Fisker Karma prototype include an enhanced upper grill and an enlarged lower intake for improved airflow. A new aerodynamic diffuser under the rear bumper helps cool the electric drivetrain. Instantly recognizable, the Fisker Karma also benefits from having the world's largest continuously formed glass solar panel roof on a car - an industry first and a standard feature on all Fisker Karma sedans.
"From initial concept to final production, it is important for Fisker to maintain a singular design language and to keep the integrity of the original design, inside and out. Extreme proportions, beautiful sculpture and earth-friendly materials are key elements that set the Fisker Karma apart," said Fisker Automotive, Inc. CEO Henrik Fisker. "An inspiring drive is also an important and crucial element. Our hope is that the Fisker Karma will create a new segment of eco-friendly transportation and will become the most desirable plug-in hybrid sports sedan available."
A desirable car of any kind requires an inviting cockpit. Fisker's interior design team focused on sustainable design held accountable to the environment. Inspiration from nature's timeless beauty and the quality of classic design composition provided immense inspiration. Fisker Karma's Sustainable and Accountable Design is reflected in the use of reusable materials enhanced with modern technology. For example, wood trim is sourced from non-living trees: 'Fallen Trees' that have succumbed to age; 'Rescued Trees' burned in forest fires; and 'Sunken Trees' lying in American lake bottoms.
Fisker Karma's instrumentation and controls focus on ease of use. Embedded in the layered EcoGlass™ center console is a 10.2-inch touch sensitive screen controlling HVAC, audio and other vehicle systems. LCD gauges behind the steering wheel provide display critical information like battery charge and vehicle speed.
"The Fisker Karma's material philosophy balances sensuality and accountability," said Fisker. "We have gone to great lengths to use only environmentally conscious, classic automotive materials that support a commitment to our eco initiatives. At Fisker Automotive we are trying to inspire change for the better."
Fisker Karma buyers will choose from three trim levels: EcoBase™, EcoSport™ and EcoChic™. The most advanced sustainable material series, EcoChic™, is based on an animal-free approach that still offers a luxurious environment. Leather is replaced by 100% Bamboo Viscose, a soft hand textile, while EcoGlass™ trim frames authentic fossilized leaves. Karma's EcoSport™ series incorporates hand-wrapped premium leather using a 100% sustainable manufacturing strategy, which minimizes the number of hides required and highlights natural markings.
KARMA PRODUCTION AND DELIVERY
To meet production goals, Fisker turned to specialty builder Valmet Automotive in Finland. Delivery of the more than 1,000 pre-ordered Karmas will begin this year. To commemorate initial production, the first 99 examples will be trimmed to match both interior and exterior specifications of the Fisker Karma prototype originally showcased at the 2008 NAIAS. Each will feature a personalized plaque with a designated car number and signature from Henrik Fisker
Also at the heart of defining the future is Fisker's retail network. A selective process to support initial deliveries is underway and interest from established dealers is high. Customers can expect a high level of service from retail partners that share their environmental and energy values.
From the California automaker Fisker Automotive comes the Fisker Karma, the world's first true Electric Vehicle with extended range (EVer™) and a...
Fisker Automotive, Inc., the new American manufacturer of premium green automobiles, unveiled its first production car - the 2010 Fisker Karma - at the...
From the California automaker Fisker Automotive comes the Fisker Karma, the world's first true Electric Vehicle with extended range (EVer™) and a...
Fisker Surf combines performance, luxury, style, utility, and economy with an enduring concern for the sustainable use of resources and respect for our...
The body design of the new Audi A6 Sedan is clear and functional. Its minimalistic design combines elegance and sportiness. The most important design feature is the curve...
The clean architecture, combined with the continuous and three-dimensional light strip, gives the new A6 e-tron clarity and aplomb. A striking spoiler lip finishes off the rear...
Audi S6 e-tron and A6 e-tron are equipped with differently sized tires on the front and rear axles, further improving stability and sportiness.
Like the A8 and the A7 Sportback, the new Audi A6 is an expressive ambassador of the new Audi design language. With taut surfaces, sharply defined edges...
Audi S6 in the US features a new 2.9-liter TFSI V6 engine, developed specifically to produce a wider range of torque when combined with an electric compressor...
On the Audi S6, the horizontal splitter in aluminum look creates an enormous feeling of width at the front. It links the two air inlets and ends with...
The winner in the business class has just gotten better - Audi has thoroughly updated the A6 family. New engines, transmissions and headlights, plus a new...
The Audi S6 Avant is a sports cars for everyday. The 4.0 TFSI, a biturbo V8 producing 331 kW (450 hp), accelerates the car from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.4 s...
The design of the new Audi A6 embodies athleticism and elegance. The sedan is 4.92 meters (16.14 ft) long and 1.87 meters (6.14 ft) wide, but just 1.46 meters...
Athletic character, quiet understatement and richly appointed - Audi is remaking the Audi S6 and S6 Avant . Both models are sports cars for everyday use,...
A winner always builds on his strengths: That's why Audi has again upgraded its luxury class Audi A6 model. Efficient engines have been added to the...
The V10 on the Audi S6 has 320 kW (435 hp). Changes made to the sports model are limited to interior and exterior optical details. Its design is emphasized...
426 kW (580 hp) and 650 Nm (479.42 lb-ft) of torque - with its twin-turbo V10 and quattro permanent all-wheel drive, the Audi RS6 is a car without equal.
The C6 iteration of the A6 features more sophisticated technology. Most notable is the Multi Media Interface (MMI), which is a system controlling in-car...
The A6 C6 was released in 2004. Designed by Walter De Silva, the new model is much longer (492 cm) and features more sophisticated technology. Most notably...
Distinct sports appeal, elegant style and supreme comfort - these are the characteristic features of the Audi A6. At the time of its market launch in 2004,...
In 2000 and 2001, the "C5" A6 was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list. This new A6 was available with a wide range of engines and configurations.
This new Audi A6 moved up a notch in quality, and was marketed in the same categories as the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
In 1997, Audi introduced the second generation A6 models. It was a complete re-design, and a new S6 appeared a year later on the new platform. It was...
The RS6 was only available with Audi's Torsen-based quattro permanent four-wheel drive, utilising the Torsen T-2 dynamic 'automatic torque biasing' (ATB)...
Audi was fairly constantly re-structuring their model lineup in early and mid-1990s, and in 1994 began selling the fifth generation 100 model as the A6.
The proportions of the new Audi A7 Sportback are an optimal basis for the new Audi design language in the luxury class. The interior also takes up the...
On the Audi S7, the wide, low Singleframe grille features lamellas in aluminum standard and a corpus in dark chrome matt. The air inlets are enlarged...
Audi RS7 Sportback sits low to the ground. The flared wheel arches emphasize the spectacularly sporty nature of the high-performance model. The noticeable width...
The 4.0 TFSI in the Audi RS7 Sportback delivers 441 kW (600 metric hp) and a constant 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque across a wide engine speed range from 2,050 to 4,500 rpm.
Audi has spared no effort in revising the A7 Sportback. The spacious five-door coupe is now even more powerful and attractive - thanks to new engine...
The top-of-the-range engine, the 4.0 TFSI, is available in the Audi S7 Sportback. It delivers 331 kW (450 hp) of power and uses innovative COD technology.
The standard eight-speed tiptronic has been designed for maximum sportiness in the new Audi RS7 Sportback performance. All gear changes are fast and flexible.
Dynamics in a new top form - Audi has honed the RS7 Sportback. The large five-door coupé comes with new LED headlights and even more enhanced...
Emotion-packed design, sporty character and innovative technology: Audi is targeting a new market segment with the Audi A7 Sportback. The large five-door...
The Audi S7 Sportback uses the same engine as the S6 and S6 Avant , the new 4.0 TFSI with 309 kW (420 hp) and 550 Nm (405.66 lb-ft) of torque. The...
Dynamics at their most beautiful - the Audi RS7 Sportback, the latest model from quattro GmbH, combines the power of a sports car with the elegance of a...
Mercedes-Benz CLS receives a redesigned multifunction steering wheel in Nappa leather. The spokes are finished in high-gloss black with silver chrome edging...
Mercedes-AMG CLS53 4MATIC+ combines a powerful 320 kW (435 hp) output with sporty style and high efficiency. The integrated starter-generator briefly delivers...
The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLS is powered by completely new engines, initially in-line six-cylinder diesel and petrol units.
The front apron of the CLS53 4MATIC+ features additional side air curtains: the air flows over them in a targeted manner, thereby improving the aerodynamics...
Mercedes-Benz has extensively revised the four-door CLS Coupé and the CLS Shooting Brake. Both design icons now feature a honed front section. Their...
The four-door CLS63 AMG Coupé and Shooting Brake are now even sportier and more attractive. Visually both AMG high-performance models look more...
Outrageous proportions: a long bonnet, narrow-look windows with frameless side windows, dynamic roof sweeping back at an angle towards the rear. In 2003...
Exciting design, ultimate performance and groundbreaking efficiency: this is what the new Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is all about. The top-of-the-range...
Mercedes-Benz is making the CLS even more irresistible. This one-of-a-kind four-door coupé - the pioneer of a whole new automotive segment - has now...
Meanwhile, the flagship model in the range - the CLS 63 AMG with its 378 kW/514 hp AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine - now comes with 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels...
Stuttgart, Sep 07, 2004 At the beginning of October 2004 the new Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class four-door Coupé is being given its market launch. The car...
Another new development is the CLS 63 AMG, whose V8 naturally aspirated engine generates 378 kW/ 514 hp. Mercedes-Benz is enhancing the vehicle's standard...
The high-voltage battery in the BMW i5 combines compact dimensions with high energy density. It provides a usable energy content of 84.3 kWh.
The heightened presence of the new BMW 5-Series is underscored by the athletic proportions and the larger exterior dimensions compared to the previous generation.
Individual design features give the BMW i5 M60 xDrive a striking look, which emphasise its dynamic performance. A front apron with black surfaces at its center...
The combustion engine in the new BMW M5 blends its classically highrevving nature with emphatic power delivery sustained across a wide engine speed range.
The gracefully sporting, modern appearance of the new BMW 5-Series is enhanced at the rear of both the Sedan and Touring models by clear surfacing with minimalist lines.
BMW M5 CS builds on the very high dynamic abilities of the M5 Competition Package's chassis and suspension tuning. This means stiffer engine mounts...
In the BMW M5, the 4.4-litre V8 engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology generates 441 kW (600 hp), while in the BMW M5 Competition the high-revving unit produces 460 kW...
The design of the new BMW 5-Series Sedan exudes athletic prowess, elegance and stylistic assurance. The new model therefore remains the quintessential...
The new BMW 530e iPerformance does not impose any restrictions when it comes to the choice of equipment options, meaning that it is able to support...
The new BMW M550i xDrive is the first BMW 5-Series M Performance model to be powered by a petrol engine, namely a specifically modified M Performance...
Like every BMW M car, the new BMW M5 Competition is equipped with chassis technology matched perfectly to the performance characteristics of its engine.
Lurking under the bonnet of the new BMW M5 is the latest version of the 4.4-litre V8 engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology. The further...
Global bestseller, winner of a string of comparison tests and "Germany's favourite car" - the BMW 5-Series represents a quite unique success...
The BMW 5 ActiveHybrid comes with specially adapted versions of the coasting mode and Proactive Driving Assistant, helping customers to make maximum use...
Emphasisplaced judiciously on certain areas of design enhances the enjoyment of the superior driving experience in the BMW M5 high-performance sedan. In...
The world debut of the new BMW 5-Series Sedan marks the epitome of modern design and driving pleasure in the world of premium midsize sedans. Through its...
World premiere of the new BMW 5-Series Long-Wheelbase: Developed and built exclusively for the Chinese car market, this truly exclusive sedan sets new...
BMW has developed its intelligent hybrid drive technology to the next level with a further ActiveHybrid production model. Again, a petrol engine is...
The BMW M550d xDrive Sedan goes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.7 seconds, while the BMW M550d xDrive Touring records 4.9 seconds for the same sprint.
BMW M5 is a high-performance sports car whose exceptional dynamic potential is geared squarely to the demands of track use yet which also sets a new benchmark...
More convincingly than any other car in its class, the BMW 5-Series combines supreme style and presence with sporting power and performance. And now the...
With the BMW 5-Series Security, BMW offers an armoured sedan in the premium segment of the upper medium category. Thanks to their unique security concept,...
The BMW E60/E61 series is the fifth generation of the BMW 5 Series, which was sold from 2003 to 2010. It was launched in the sedan body style, with the...
The perfect combination of driving dynamics and motoring comfort is now available in truly impressive style: Focusing exclusively on the Chinese market,...
BMW 545i is powered by BMW's advanced 4.4-liter N62 V8 engine, which delivers 325 hp. With the 6-speed manual transmission, official BMW data indicate...
The ultimate in sports sedan motoring has got a name: BMW M5. This finest BMW 5-Series vehicle is the most powerful of all time: five liters of cubic...
For the 2001 model year, BMW updated the E39 with newer, clear-lens tail, side marker, new design steering wheel and headlights which first displayed the...
Unlike its predecessors, the E39 M5 was not handbuilt at the BMW M GmbH factory; it was produced on the same assembly line as the normal E39 5-series at...
BMW 528i was positioned in the middle of the model series and developed into the most successful model in this BMW 5-Series on the basis of a balanced overall concept.
With the 540i, BMW retained the front steering and suspension from the previous E34 540i with the design based on the E38 7 Series. The physical size...
Exterior and interior dimensions were both significantly increased on the third-generation BMW 5-Series models. Their styling was reminiscent of the...
The E34 M5 was produced from 1989 to 1995, although sales in North America started in 1991 and ended in 1993. It was produced at BMW M GmbH in Garching,...
The second-generation BMW 5-Series was launched on the market in 1981 and many improvements were introduced particularly in the area of engineering. BMW...
The first BMW M5, based on the E28 5 Series, made its debut at Amsterdam Motor Show in February 1985. It was the product of demand for an automobile with...
In 1972, the New Class was replaced by the first BMW 5-Series (E12). The designation of the BMW model series still used today was introduced here and this...
A collaboration with BMW Motorsport GmbH launched the Type M535i as the flagship model of this series in 1979. The car was powered by a 3.5 litre engine...
The new E-Class combines tradition and modernity: on the one hand, the model series continues the long model history of the classic Mercedes-Benz E-Class...
The basis for the sporty and efficient drive is the proven AMG 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder turbo engine. In the E53 HYBRID 4MATIC+ it delivers 330 kW (449 hp).
The enhanced dynamics and the upgrade of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class are reflected in the model range: Now the entry-level model already comes with the sporty...
AMG Driver's Package allows the electronically limited top speed in the new E53 models to be increased to 270 kmh (standard: 250 kmh). The high-performance...
The AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine in the E63 S 4MATIC+ continues to achieve 450 kW (612 hp) and a maximum torque of 850 Nm. It is available across a wide...
Mercedes-Benz is taking a big step into the future with the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The tenth-generation executive saloon delivers stylish highlights...
At "Auto China 2016" in Beijing, Mercedes-Benz presented the long-wheelbase version of the E-Class, measuring an extra 140 millimetres in length.
The AMG Driver's Package for the first time allows increasing the electronically limited top speed in the new E53 models to 270 kmh. The compound braking...
Hot on the heels of the world premiere for the new Mercedes‑Benz E-Class, its first high-performance variant is on the way from Mercedes-AMG. The E43...
AMG 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine in the E63 S 4MATIC+ takes peak performance to a new level at 450 kW (612 hp). Maximum torque attains a new best value of 850 Nm.
Mercedes-Benz has completely revised the Saloon and Estate models of the E-Class. As a result, the new E-Class has made a significant step forward when it...
Auto China 2013 in Shanghai sets the stage for the world premiere of the long version of the new E-Class . Developed for the growth market in China, it...
Mercedes-AMG continues to champion performance, dynamism and efficiency: the new Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is now available as a particularly powerful S-Model...
The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a the pacemaker when it comes to safety, comfort and environmental compatibility in this market segment. With more than 20...
Specially tailored for the growing market for luxury saloons in China, the long-version of the new Mercedes E-Class celebrated its world premiere at...
Known inside the company as the M273, the 5.5-liter V8 in the Mercedes-Benz E550 sedan and coupe produces 382 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque, with...
Shortly after the launch of the new E-Class , AMG is kicking off the new 2009 motoring season with the introduction of the new Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. This...
The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is now even more powerful and efficient. As part of the "AMG Performance 2015" model strategy, the high-performance ...
On April 12, 2006, the new generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class will celebrate its world premiere at the New York International Automobile Show. Like...
The E55 AMG is powered by the M113 ML55 engine, a 5.4 L V8 with a Lysholm type supercharger manufactured by IHI. The E55's engine was tuned to 476 PS...
The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class was unveiled at the 2002 European Motor Show Brussels; the design of the 2002 E-Class evolved the lines...
The Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG is powered by the M113 ML55 engine, a 5.4 L V8 with a Lysholm type supercharger manufactured by IHI. The E55's engine was tuned...
The Mercedes-Benz W210 is a mid-size luxury car / executive car produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz from 1996 through 2002. They were sold under...
The body styling on all of the W210 AMG models was the same until 2000 when a facelift and interior upgrades were implemented. E55 which used a 5.5L v-8 SOHC...
The BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe conjures up a new balance of dynamic excellence, elegance and luxury. The latest addition to the BMW 6-Series range blends...
Once again BMW is advancing into a new vehicle segment with the introduction of the BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe. Following the convertible and the Coupe in the...
A third body variant of the BMW M6 high-performance sports car is set to be presented for the first time as the BMW M6 Gran Coupe joins the existing Coupe...
Cadillac introduced the all-new 2014 CTS sedan, which ascends into the heart of the midsize luxury market with expanded performance, elevated luxury and...
Cadillac introduced the 2016 CTS-V, the most powerful product in the brand's 112-year history and the newest entry in the elite class of the world's...
Aggressive and elegant, expressive and sophisticated, the 2008 Cadillac CTS exudes a dramatic design presence. This all-new luxury sedan not only pushes...
As the new CTS sport sedan earns accolades and new owners, Cadillac takes the next leap forward by premiering the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V, the brand's ultimate...
With styling beyond bold, the new 2003 CTS builds on Cadillac's 100-year tradition of engineering excellence and design innovation. The CTS is a...
Overview The 2004 CTS-V - Cadillac's ambitious entry into the low-volume, high-performance luxury car niche - represents the first vehicle to wear the...
A number of new exterior design cues reinforce the sophisticated contemporary presence of the new Volvo S80. The new front and rear bumpers create a...
The Volvo S80 is a luxury car that offers distinctive Scandinavian design, innovative technology, a refined ride, spaciousness and comfort. This luxurious...
Volvo Car Corporation launched the all-new Volvo S80L in Beijing, China. The prices and specifications of the 5 variants were presented. To meet the demand...
The all new Volvo S80 is the second generation of Volvo's large prestige sedan, launched at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show. The new S80 model is a luxurious...
The new Volvo S80 retains its familiar looks - yet not quite. A number of new design details create an overall impression of a new prestige car in Volvo's...
The Volvo S80 was launched in spring 1998 as Volvo's large new premium sedan. It was the first model of the new generation to showcase Volvo's more...